UPL representative training farmers on crop protection in Nakuru County, Molo
NPCK and partners conducted demonstration and farmer trainings on 1st to 9th February 2021 in six major potato producing counties with the goal of showcasing different technologies/ innovations and GAPs for potato production. The partners involved included Agrico EA, Cropnuts, Baraka, Amiran, Fanisi, Omnia, UPL, Corteva, Bayer, Osho chemicals, Lachlan, Amiran, AAK and Hygrotech. Over 400 potato farmers were trained in the six counties (Meru, Nyandarua, Nakuru, Bomet, Narok and Elgeyo Marakwet) on recommended practices such as; soil testing services, seeds selection and use of quality seeds, crop nutrition, crop protection spray service provision and use of Viazi soko platform to access quality inputs and services. The county potato liaison officers and ward agricultural officers also participated in the training where they sensitized farmers on the potato regulations 2019 and other county strategies in place for promoting potato production.
During the trainings, COVID-19 preventive measures such as social distancing, wearing of masks, sanitization and temperature check using thermo guns were observed. The trainings took place in 2 sessions in groups of 30 to avoid overcrowding in line with the Ministry of Health guidelines.
